Category: Health Predispositions

What is glaucoma? Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that occurs when the nerve in the back of the eye (called the optic nerve) is damaged, most commonly due to high eye pressure. Optic nerve damage can cause gradual vision loss that may start as blind spots or loss of side (peripheral) vision and… Continue reading Glaucoma

What is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)? Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a disorder that impacts the large intestine. It causes symptoms like abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, gas, and changes in bowel movements, including diarrhea, constipation, or both. The cause of IBS is not well understood. Researchers think it may involve multiple related factors, including… Continue reading Irritable Bowel Syndrome

What are basal and squamous cell skin cancers? Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) are the two most common types of skin cancer. They begin in basal cells and squamous cells, which are found in the outer layer of the skin. The most common cause of basal and squamous cell skin cancers… Continue reading Basal and Squamous Cell Skin Cancers

What is melanoma? Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. It begins in melanocytes, which are cells that make melanin — the pigment that gives the skin its color. The most common cause of melanoma is too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun (including through clouds and glass windows). In… Continue reading Melanoma

What is diverticulitis? Especially as people age, weak spots in the intestinal tract give way to form small pouches or sacs. These pouches are called “diverticula.” (One pouch is called a “diverticulum.”) Scientists don’t know exactly why these pouches form, but it is likely due to a combination of factors including weakening of the intestinal… Continue reading Diverticulitis

What is severe acne? Severe acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles in the skin become clogged with oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells. This can lead to many deep and painful types of pimples along with many whiteheads and blackheads. Severe acne is most common on the face, but can… Continue reading Severe Acne

What is gestational diabetes? Gestational diabetes mellitus, commonly known as gestational diabetes, is a form of diabetes that starts during pregnancy. During pregnancy, the body produces high levels of certain hormones that impair the body’s response to insulin, resulting in increased blood sugar levels. After childbirth, these levels typically return to normal. For most people,… Continue reading Gestational Diabetes

What are gallstones? The gallbladder is a small, pouch-like organ underneath the liver that stores bile, a fluid that helps digest fats in the small intestine. Gallstones are solid, pebble-like masses that form in the gallbladder and are typically classified into two types depending on their makeup. Cholesterol gallstones, which make up 80% of gallstones… Continue reading Gallstones

What is HDL cholesterol? High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is a waxy substance made of fat and protein molecules that circulates in the blood. HDL cholesterol picks up “bad” LDL cholesterol from the blood and carries it back to the liver where it is broken down and removed from the body. This helps prevent LDL cholesterol… Continue reading HDL Cholesterol

What is eczema? Eczema is a skin condition that causes dry, discolored, and itchy skin. People with eczema are more likely to get skin infections and are more likely to develop asthma and allergies. Atopic dermatitis (AD) is the most common type of eczema, and the two terms are sometimes used interchangeably. What is atopic… Continue reading Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)